Ulisse Frissora

Ulisse Frissora, beloved father, grandfather, devoted brother, and educator, passed away on April 29, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on September 6, 1941, in Introdacqua, Italy, Ulisse was the son of Luciano and Ginevra Frissora. In 1954, at the age of 12, he left Italy by boat, arriving in New York on June 24 and traveling by train to Columbus, Ohio the following day—a journey that marked the beginning of a remarkable story.

Although Ulisse had not completed seventh grade before immigrating, his perseverance and determination led him to excel in his new country. He enrolled at Linden McKinley High School and graduated in 1960, finishing at the top of his class. His academic excellence earned him a scholarship to The Ohio State University, where he majored in Spanish and French. He went on to earn a master’s degree in language education in 1969.

Ulisse dedicated his life to teaching, sharing his love of languages with generations of students at Brookhaven High School in Columbus. He taught Spanish there from 1964 until his retirement in 1999, inspiring countless students with his passion, discipline, and care. He enjoyed the friendship and camaraderie of the Abruzzi Club, serving as treasurer for several years.

Preceded in death by parents, Luciano and Ginevra; brother Antonio, sister in-law Ida; and sister in-law Suzanne. Beloved father of David (Kristen), Debbie Thom, grandchildren Evan, Clara, Aiden and Adam; sister Lia McComas, brothers Michele Frissora, Egeo (Fiorenza) Frissora, nieces and nephews and Moby. Ulisse was loved deeply by his family and admired by many in the community for his integrity, humility, and quiet strength.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 8, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schoedinger Worthington, 6699 North High Street, Worthington, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 9, at 11:00 a.m. at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, if desired: https://support.davethomasfoundation.org/site/Donation2?df_id=9591&9591.donation=form1&mfc_pref=Ts_src=Z25Z1HX1T&.